In the Matter of Orlando F., a Child Alleged to be Permanently Neglected. New York Foundling Hospital, Appellant…

Summary

The Court held that the mother failed to substantially plan for her child's future, satisfying the statutory requirement for permanent neglect, and therefore the petition to terminate parental rights should have been granted. It also held that the Family Court must appoint a Law Guardian in permanent neglect proceedings and remanded the case for a dispositional hearing. The Appellate Division's affirmation of dismissal was modified and the matter was sent back to the Family Court.